President Vladimir Putin of Russia has addressed the nation ahead of the upcoming presidential election, urging citizens to participate in the democratic process. Putin's address comes as the country prepares for the election scheduled for March 15-17, with early voting already underway in several countries.
Putin's History of Addressing the Nation Before Elections
Putin has a history of addressing the nation before federal elections, having done so eight times previously. These addresses occurred in 2000, 2004, 2016, and 2018, including twice before and after the presidential elections. In 2021, Putin once again spoke to the nation ahead of the elections. Additionally, in 2020, he addressed the nation before the nationwide referendum on constitutional amendments.
Heading: Putin's Call for National Unity
In his recent address, President Putin emphasised the importance of unity, stating, "We need to confirm our consolidation, our determination to go forward together." He highlighted the significance of each vote, urging citizens to exercise their right to vote over the three-day election period.
CNN Report on Putin's Expected Re-Election
CNN has reported that Putin is expected to secure a fifth term in office, quashing any opposition. The report notes that with the recent death of imprisoned Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, Putin's political career has reached a stage where he is seen as a president-for-life.
The report also highlights concerns about Russia's future political stability, stating, "His re-anointment lays bare an uncomfortable fact for Russia's future political stability. The President and his circle have not made any visible preparations for a post-Putin era."
Early Voting for Presidential Election
Meanwhile, early voting for the presidential election is underway globally, with Russian citizens abroad participating in the process. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has stated that early voting has already taken place in 23 countries, with 29 election commissions supervising the process. As of March 12, more than 40,000 Russians have already voted.
Zakharova emphasised that local Russian officials are ready to provide assistance to citizens participating in early voting.
Presidential Election Scheduled for March 17
The Russian Federation Council, also known as the Upper House of the Russian Parliament or Duma, has officially scheduled the presidential election for March 17. Putin, who is the longest-serving leader since Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin, is expected to secure another term in office.
Even before Putin announced his candidacy, the Kremlin made it clear that it did not see any alternatives to his system of one-man rule. Putin's address and the ongoing election process highlight the significance of this election for Russia's political future.
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